Family Alleges Medical Negligence as Doctor ‘Leaves Scissors’ in Patien

A Nigerian media personality, Beady Nnanna, has accused a private hospital in Lagos State of medical negligence following the death of her 44-year-old sister, Blessing Okolie, after a fibroid surgery.

Nnanna alleged that a pair of surgical scissors was mistakenly left inside Okolie’s abdomen during the procedure, leading to complications that ultimately resulted in her death.

Background to the Surgery

According to Nnanna, her sister had been battling a severe fibroid condition that caused significant abdominal swelling and personal distress, including marital challenges.

In search of treatment, Okolie reportedly chose a private medical facility in the Abule Egba area of Lagos, despite her sister’s reservations about the hospital’s standards.

Nnanna said she initially advised against the choice, citing concerns about the facility’s condition, but Okolie insisted after receiving recommendations from a previous patient.

Surgery and Immediate Concerns

The surgery was carried out on March 28, 2026. While doctors initially described the operation as successful, Nnanna claimed that her sister was left in a vulnerable state shortly afterward.

She alleged that Okolie was placed on a bench after the procedure and later encouraged to consume tea and climb stairs to her ward, actions she found inappropriate given her condition.

Deteriorating Health Condition

In the days following the surgery, Okolie reportedly began experiencing persistent abdominal pain, which worsened significantly.

Nnanna said repeated requests for diagnostic tests, including a scan, were allegedly dismissed by hospital staff, who insisted that there was no cause for concern.

However, Okolie’s condition continued to deteriorate, with her abdomen swelling abnormally and her overall health declining.

Discovery of Foreign Object

After nearly a week of persistent complaints, a scan was eventually conducted at an external diagnostic centre. The result, according to Nnanna, revealed the presence of a metal object inside her sister’s abdomen.

The discovery prompted shock and distress, with Nnanna alleging that the object was a surgical instrument left behind during the operation.

Hospital Response and Emergency Action

Upon presenting the scan results to the hospital, Nnanna claimed that staff appeared shocked but offered no immediate explanation.

Doctors reportedly moved to conduct a second surgery to address the issue, despite Okolie’s weakened state after days without adequate food or water.

Call for Accountability

The incident has sparked outrage and renewed concerns about medical standards, patient safety, and regulatory oversight in private healthcare facilities.

Nnanna has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her sister’s death, urging authorities to ensure accountability and prevent similar occurrences.

Wider Implications

The case highlights ongoing concerns about medical negligence in Nigeria, particularly regarding adherence to surgical protocols and post-operative care.

As calls for justice grow, stakeholders are urging health authorities to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and enforce stricter compliance with medical standards across healthcare institutions.